Nike vs. Adidas: The biggest brand rivalry of all time. We know both as staples–giants–in the athletic apparel industry. Both have been around for more than 50 years and are still standing strong. But how different (and alike) are they?

Nike is an American company, started by Phil Knight as “Blue Ribbon Sports” in 1964. Now the largest sportswear manufacturer in the world, it went from local to global in the blink of an eye. The second largest sportswear manufacturer, and largest in Europe, in the world? Adidas, of course. Started in 1924 in Germany as “The Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory” by brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler. While “Blue Ribbon Sports” became Nike in 1971, the name “Adidas” was born long before in 1949.

Both companies have become pillars in the sportswear industry through their use of cutting-edge technology to create the most innovative shoes in the world. Nike’s use of foam, leather and rubber through their ZoomX material make shoes feel lighter, bouncier and more comfortable. Whether it be running shoes, basketball shoes or casual everyday shoes, the technological advancements the company has developed changed the shoe game. Meanwhile, Adidas’ sustainable recycled polyester material not only emphasizes’ comfort, but addresses the company’s carbon footprint.

Nike’s meteoric rise to the top of the footwear game was accentuated by the arrival of Michael Jordan in 1984, and later the signings of world-famous athletes such as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Air Jordan and Jordan Brand line of Nike has generated roughly $3 billion in sales per year. On the other hand Adidas has focused on their global partnerships. The company sponsored 12 nations during the 2018 World Cup–the most watched sporting event in the world. They reported around $500 million of revenue generated from the event alone and boosted sales of their soccer jerseys, cleats and apparel year-round.

The arrival of Nike’s “Just Do It” slogan and campaign in 1988 unofficially started the battle between the two titans. Then Adidas’ partnership with Kanye West in 2014 began the Yeezy vs. Jordan clash. While both have battled controversy, each have remained at the top. Nike has the upper-hand in sales and revenue, yet Adidas has taken over Europe and will not be slowing down any time soon. Whichever way you prefer, you can’t go wrong.